Catching Fireflies

I remember running through the too-tall grass, racing with my brother to catch as many fireflies as we could. I would catch them in my hand and cup it to my face to watch the little flashes of light. We always wanted to fill the best glass jars we could find and make them into lanterns, punching holes in the lids to keep our new friends safe. Every adventure was more magical and exciting when lit by fireflies. As I reflect on those summer nights, I realize that I learned a few things from them.

Darkness isn't always something to be afraid of. Human nature is to avoid the dark places. Move away from hard things. But I can tell you... the darker it was outside, the easier it was to see those tiny lights. Life is like that. Dark and difficult places bring into sharper focus our growth and our joy. They give us opportunities to see God's light guiding us out of the pit and into the sun. They give us opportunities to BE that light for others who are where we have been. Don't hide in the darkness. Grab onto the light that Jesus has for you and shine it brightly before others!

The more fireflies we caught, the brighter our jars glowed. The more you know about God's loving character, the greater your witness will be. Your path will be better lit, and the rocks and potholes that make you stumble are more easily seen. Gather all the pieces that He shows you of Him together. Keep them in your heart and in your mind. Your testimony will grow ever brighter as you go.

We found more joy in our adventures when we shared them with each other. The giggles and the challenges held more meaning as we saw them in someone we loved. Man was not meant to walk alone. The Father wants us to encourage one another, lift each other up, spur others on to good works. Share your story. Share your lessons and your wisdom (you have wisdom... don't let anyone tell you otherwise). Find that place where you have more joy when joy is shared. I promise it's worth it.

I wonder what lessons grandma learned on those warm nights, watching her grandkids hunting little flashes of light in the too-tall grass near the farm house. Did it encourage her to share her light with us even more than she already did? Did it bring her joy to see us laughing together? I believe it did, and I believe we are all called to light the shadows. Go. Be the light in the dark places. Be love.